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China’s lunar exploration story reads like a sci-fi saga come to life! The journey began in 2004 with the aptly named Chang’e Program—inspired by the legendary moon goddess—and has since achieved milestones that rival even the coolest space movies. Here’s the breakdown:
Phase 1: Orbiting the Moon
In 2007, Chang’e-1 blasted off, mapping the lunar surface in HD and revealing secrets hidden for eons. Three years later, Chang’e-2 got even closer, snapping pics so sharp they could spot a moon crater the size of a football field!
Phase 2: Touchdowns & Rovers
By 2013, Chang’e-3 made history with a silky-soft landing, deploying the adorable Yutu rover (aka Jade Rabbit ). But China wasn’t done: In 2019, Chang’e-4 conquered the moon’s mysterious far side—a first for humanity—with help from the Queqiao relay satellite.
Phase 3: Bringing Moon to Earth
Chang’e-5 scored a slam dunk in 2020, scooping up 1.7 kg of lunar samples—the first in over 40 years! And just this June, Chang’e-6 outdid itself by delivering the world’s first far-side samples to Earth. Talk about next-level space mail!
What’s Next?
With Chang’e-7 and 8 on the horizon, China’s moon quest is far from over. Who knows? Maybe lunar bases or even a ‘Mooniverse’ metaverse are next!
The journey began in 2004 with the aptly named Chang’e Program—inspired by the legendary moon goddess—and has since achieved milestones that rival even the coolest space movies. 
Here’s the breakdown:
). But China wasn’t done: In 2019, Chang’e-4 conquered the moon’s mysterious far side—a first for humanity—with help from the Queqiao relay satellite. 
Chang'e-6 Moon Rocks Reveal Secrets of Lunar Far Side!
